Compressibility Factor

The compressibility factor, symbolized as Z, measures how much a real gas's behavior deviates from that predicted by the ideal gas law. For an ideal gas, Z equals 1, but real gases can have Z less than or greater than 1 depending on conditions. It accounts for interactions between molecules and their volume, helping engineers and scientists accurately predict gas behavior under different pressures and temperatures. Understanding Z is essential for designing and operating equipment in industries like chemical processing and natural gas production, ensuring safety and efficiency.